DeKalb Talks Tourism

Discover DeKalb
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Hello and welcome to DeKalb Talks Tourism, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the people, places, and experiences that make DeKalb County unforgettable. I’m James Tsismanakis, Executive Director & CEO of Discover DeKalb, and your host. At Discover DeKalb, our mission is simple: connect visitors and locals alike to the incredible stories happening across our community. From hidden-gem restaurants and vibrant arts to thriving local businesses, cultural traditions, and can’t-miss experiences, this podcast brings you inside the heartbeat of DeKalb. Each episode features the visionaries, crea

  1. MAR 11

    Terry Cummings - Leadership, Mentorship, and the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Terry Cummings to celebrate his induction into the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County and reflect on the purpose-driven journey that led him there. Terry shares his background and career path, explaining how his commitment to mentorship and service aligned naturally with the mission of the organization. He discusses the kind of guidance he hopes to provide to young people—focusing on leadership, accountability, and real-world preparation—and why the work of 100 Black Men of DeKalb County is so vital for strengthening the community. Terry also highlights why youth services remain a personal priority, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities, support systems, and positive role models for the next generation. To close, he offers insight on one leadership skill he believes is essential for future success: the ability to lead with integrity while uplifting others along the way. Learn More:https://www.instagram.com/terrycummings34/https://www.instagram.com/100blackmenofdekalb/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/100blackmenofdekalbcounty/ Follow us at Discover Dekalb! DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism⁠⁠⁠ DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalkstourism/ Discover DeKalb IG: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/discoverdekalb Discover DeKalb FB: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/⁠⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb⁠⁠⁠ If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Podcast Producer, Martin - Podcast@discoverdekalb.com We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced & Edited by: Martin Macalino  #NBA #TerryCummings #Podcast #PodcastLife #Podcaster #PodcastCommunity #PodcastRecommendations #NowListening #PodcastLove #TuneIn #DeKalbCounty #VisitGeorgia #GeorgiaFilm #ATLArts #AtlantaCreators #ExploreAtlanta #DiscoverDekalb #DekalbTalksTourism #DekalbTourism  #LifeStories #CareerTalk #FamilyFocus #InspiringConversations #WomenInFilm #CreativityConversation #PodcastBuzz #PodcastClips #PodcastHighlights #ListenNow #MustListen

    13 min

  2. MAR 4

    Sugar Bert Boxing | Bringing the Big-Ring to Atlanta

    In this episode, we sit down with the team behind Sugar Bert Boxing to talk about how they joined forces and built a program rooted in discipline, opportunity, and heart. They break down the “Sugar Bert mentality,” what separates a good coach from a great one, and why working with young fighters keeps their passion for the sport alive. We also dive into how the rise of boxing content online is shaping today’s athletes, what to expect from the upcoming Golden Gloves in March, and the expansion of the Sugar Bert Boxing brand through their app and streaming partnership with Disney/ESPN. Plus, they tease upcoming events, a new movie project, potential collaborations with movie studios as event hosts, and which sports trade shows you can catch them at this year. Learn More: https://sugarbertboxing.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sugarbertboxing/?hl=en https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sugar-bert-boxing-tv/id6745961645 Follow us at Discover Dekalb! DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism⁠⁠⁠ DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalkstourism/ Discover DeKalb IG: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/discoverdekalb Discover DeKalb FB: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/⁠⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb⁠⁠⁠ If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Podcast Producer, Martin - Podcast@discoverdekalb.com We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Martin Macalino  Edited by: junior@kvisualz.com #Podcast #PodcastLife #Podcaster #PodcastCommunity #PodcastRecommendations #NowListening #PodcastLove #TuneIn #DeKalbCounty #VisitGeorgia #GeorgiaFilm #ATLArts #AtlantaCreators #ExploreAtlanta #DiscoverDekalb #DekalbTalksTourism #DekalbTourism #boxing #Sugarbertboxing #MMA #UFC

    37 min

  3. MAR 3

    Karen Ceesay | Stranger Things, Family, & “The Hollywood of the South”

    In this episode, we sit down with Karen Ceesay, President of SAG-AFTRA Atlanta, to talk about her journey into union leadership and the passion driving her work with Film Impact Georgia. She shares what brings major productions to Atlanta—from competitive tax incentives to its deep, diverse talent pool and versatile locations—and what truly sets the city apart as one of America’s leading filmmaking hubs. Karen reflects on the “Atlanta mentality” and how it fuels collaboration, hustle, and originality among creatives, while offering heartfelt insight into the next generation of filmmakers—including her own son’s decision to pursue film (after briefly considering culinary arts). We also revisit her work on The Walking Dead (Seasons 6–10) and Stranger Things (Seasons 2, 4 & 5), where she discusses balancing intimate character moments with massive action-driven sets, the evolution of production during the rise of streaming, and what separates a good set from a truly great one. Learn more! https://www.instagram.com/karenceesay/?hl=en Follow us at Discover Dekalb! DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism⁠⁠⁠⁠ DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks…⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek…⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb FB: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Podcast Producer, Martin - Podcast@discoverdekalb.com We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Martin Macalino  Edited by: K.Visualz ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kvisualz.com/⁠

    44 min

  4. FEB 18

    285 Lacrosse - In & Around Atlanta

    In this episode, we sit down with Jason Breyo, President and Chairman of the Board of 285 Lacrosse, to explore how the organization is growing the game and transforming communities across DeKalb County. Jason shares the heart behind 285 Lacrosse’s mission to expand access, opportunity, and character development through the sport, along with what personally inspired his involvement. We dive into the impact of the 2025 LaCROSSe Out Cancer Challenge, where the organization raised $41,000 to fight pediatric cancer, and Jason walks us through how that initiative galvanized players, families, and supporters around a cause bigger than the game. He explains what lacrosse means to the communities they serve, unpacks the “lacrosse mentality” rooted in grit, teamwork, and accountability, and delivers his pitch to student-athletes looking for a fast-paced, physical, and strategic sport to call their own. Jason also reflects on his favorite day with the organization, how he navigates high-pressure situations, the staff members he collaborates with most closely, and why the young athletes continue to inspire him year after year. We close with a look ahead at upcoming events, including the ATL Lacrosse Invitational on February 21. Learn more! Get tickets NOW: https://www.285lacrosse.com/ Connect with 285 Lacrosse: https://www.instagram.com/285lacrosse/ Follow us at Discover Dekalb! DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism⁠⁠ DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks…⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb IG: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek…⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/⁠⁠ Discover DeKalb TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb⁠⁠ If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Podcast Producer, Martin - Podcast@discoverdekalb.com We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Martin Macalino  Edited by: K.Visualz ⁠⁠https://www.kvisualz.com/

    29 min

  5. FEB 11

    Fernbank Museum: Technology, Education, & The Ice Age

    Step inside Fernbank Museum like never before as we speak with Jena Alison, Communications Manager, about the curiosity, connection, and creativity that shape one of Atlanta’s most beloved science institutions. Jena shares her path to Fernbank and the story the museum aims to tell for visitors young and old—one rooted in connection across time, regions, cultures, animals, and life itself.  We explore how Fernbank thoughtfully balances education and play in children’s spaces, where imagination and learning coexist, and how evolving technology like augmented reality, interactive screens, and immersive soundscapes enhances discovery without replacing hands-on exploration.  We also dive into Fernbank’s popular after-hours experiences, including Fernbank After Dark and WildWoods: AGLOW (with the final night on February 13), unpacking how the museum keeps science and education front and center even during nights filled with drinks, live music, and tapas—and how visitors embrace the blend of fun and science. We also preview the new Planet Ice exhibit opening February 7, teasing what families can expect, what surprised Jena during its development, and what goes into creating a brand-new exhibit at Fernbank from concept to completion. Learn more!  Fernbank Museum: https://fernbankmuseum.org/ Get tickets to Fernbank After Dark: https://fernbankmuseum.org/experiences/fernbank-after-dark/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1480911243&gbraid=0AAAAADKE-MRRQnk1eBSxG4D4mEvoF_Rwv&gclid=CjwKCAiA1obMBhAbEiwAsUBbIixFCLiDsWfJqK8ibv6lSCNKABobPbYpD_8jfVLFnSipwlNHG6lIChoC4y4QAvD_BwE Connect with Fernbank Museum: https://www.instagram.com/fernbankmuseum/ Follow us at Discover Dekalb!DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism⁠ DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks…⁠ Discover DeKalb IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek…⁠ Discover DeKalb FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/⁠ Discover DeKalb TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb⁠ If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Podcast Producer, Martin - Podcast@discoverdekalb.com We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Martin Macalino  Edited by: K.Visualz ⁠https://www.kvisualz.com/

    30 min
  6. 84: Minhwa Spirits

    JAN 7

    84: Minhwa Spirits

    In this episode we got to sit down with Ming Han Chung and James Kim, the owners of Minhwa Spirits in Doraville. As Georgia’s first soju distillery—and recent award winners in San Francisco—they’re making waves in the craft spirits world! We talk about the history of soju, how Minhwa Spirits came to life, and what it’s been like building a distillery right here in DeKalb County. Plus, we got to try some of their spirits and hear the stories behind the flavors. More Minhwa Sprits ⬇️ https://www.instagram.com/minhwaspirits/ https://www.minhwaspirits.com/ DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks… Discover DeKalb IG: https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek… Discover DeKalb FB: https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/ Discover DeKalb TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Marketing Coordinator: Krystal@discoverdekalb.com  We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Monica Damidi  Edited by: K.Visualz https://www.kvisualz.com/

    41 min
  7. 83: James Maggard, Fords BBQ & Local No 7

    12/24/2025

    83: James Maggard, Fords BBQ & Local No 7

    In this episode, we sit down with James Maggard to talk about his path into the restaurant industry and what inspired his love for barbecue. James shares the story behind two local favorites, Local No. 7 and Ford’s BBQ, and how they’ve become staples in the community. We also dive into the importance of building a strong team and why his staff plays such a vital role in keeping the businesses thriving. If you love hearing the stories behind your favorite neighborhood spots, this one’s for you! Ford's BBQ https://www.instagram.com/fordsbbq/ https://www.fords-bbq.com/ Local No 7 https://www.instagram.com/thelocal_no7/ https://thelocal7.com/ DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks… Discover DeKalb IG: https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek… Discover DeKalb FB: https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/ Discover DeKalb TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Marketing Coordinator: Krystal@discoverdekalb.com  We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Monica Damidi  Edited by: K.Visualz https://www.kvisualz.com/

    26 min
  8. Marlows Tavern & AMI Group - C.H.E.F. Youth Conference

    12/20/2025

    Marlows Tavern & AMI Group - C.H.E.F. Youth Conference

    The C.H.E.F. Youth Culinary Conference brought together high school students and industry professionals to explore careers in the culinary and hospitality world. These interviews are from the first-ever conference, held in October 2025 in DeKalb. Students had the chance to participate in hands-on cooking demos, hear from professionals about real-world experiences, and learn about leadership, business skills, and career opportunities. Learn more! The Navigate Foundation: https://www.thenavigateprogram.org/ CHEF Academy: https://www.chefacademyatl.com/ On the news: https://vimeo.com/1140874191 DeKalb Talks Tourism YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeKalbTalksTourism DeKalb Talks Tourism IG: https://www.instagram.com/dekalbtalks… Discover DeKalb IG: https://www.instagram.com/discoverdek… Discover DeKalb FB: https://www.facebook.com/DiscoverDekalb/ Discover DeKalb TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@discoverdekalb If you have a question or suggestion for a future topic, please reach out to our Marketing Coordinator: Krystal@discoverdekalb.com  We'll be back next week with more engaging discussions and fascinating guests. Until then, keep listening and keep exploring! Produced by: Monica Damidi  Edited by: K.Visualz https://www.kvisualz.com/

    10 min
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About

Hello and welcome to DeKalb Talks Tourism, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the people, places, and experiences that make DeKalb County unforgettable. I’m James Tsismanakis, Executive Director & CEO of Discover DeKalb, and your host. At Discover DeKalb, our mission is simple: connect visitors and locals alike to the incredible stories happening across our community. From hidden-gem restaurants and vibrant arts to thriving local businesses, cultural traditions, and can’t-miss experiences, this podcast brings you inside the heartbeat of DeKalb. Each episode features the visionaries, crea

Information

  • Creator
    Discover DeKalb
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    102
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Discover DeKalb
  • Show Website
    DeKalb Talks Tourism